Whiplash Review: A Ferocious Battle of Wills
9/10 — Whiplash (2014)
Pros
- Simmons's Oscar-winning menace
- Electric editing and sound
- Knockout final scene
Cons
- Questionable message about abuse and talent
- Underdeveloped supporting characters
Andrew, a young jazz drummer at a top music conservatory, is pushed to his limits by the abusive bandleader Terence Fletcher. Damien Chazelle made it on a modest budget, and it plays like a thriller.
What works
J.K. Simmons won an Oscar for a masterfully frightening performance, and Miles Teller is credible and gritty as the obsessed Andrew. The editing and sound design turn drum solos into combat, and the final ten minutes are electrifying.
Where it falters
Its view of artistic genius as something forged through cruelty is questionable, and the supporting characters are slim.
Verdict
Thrilling, tense and brilliantly made. You may leave out of breath.
